Your dishwasher is a hardworking appliance that diligently cleans your dishes day in and day out. However, it’s essential to remember that this cleaning hero also requires occasional maintenance to ensure it continues to function efficiently and provides hygienic results.
The Ultimate Guide to Deep Cleaning Your Dishwasher
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of cleaning your dishwasher to keep it in top-notch condition.
1: Safety First
Before embarking on the cleaning process, it’s important to take some safety precautions. Unplug your dishwasher or if it’s hardwired, make sure it’s turned off at the wall.
2: Clear the Drain and Filter (weekly)
The dishwasher’s drain and filter are notorious for trapping debris and food particles, leading to unpleasant odours and reduced cleaning performance. To begin the cleaning process, carefully remove the bottom rack to access the filter and the dishwasher’s drain.
Check the filter for any visible debris and rinse it under warm running water to remove stubborn particles. Use a soft brush or an old toothbrush to gently scrub away any residue. For the dishwasher’s drain, remove any food scraps or debris that may have accumulated. A combination of warm water and vinegar can be used to flush out any stubborn clogs.
3: Wipe Down the Interior (weekly)
Take a moment to wipe down the interior of your dishwasher. Use a soft cloth or sponge dampened with warm soapy water to clean the door, sides, and all accessible surfaces. Pay special attention to the rubber gasket around the door as food, mould & mildew can sometimes accumulate here.
4: Vinegar and Baking Soda Solution (every 3 months)
Vinegar and baking soda are natural and effective cleaning agents that can be used to tackle mineral deposits, limescale, and soap scum that may have built up over time. To create a cleaning solution, follow these simple steps:
1. Place a dishwasher-safe cup or bowl filled with white vinegar on the top rack of your dishwasher. Run the dishwasher on the hottest and longest cycle, allowing the vinegar to work its magic.
2. Sprinkle a cup of baking soda on the bottom of the dishwasher. Then run a short cycle wash for an odour-free dishwasher
The vinegar will help dissolve mineral deposits, while the baking soda will deodorise and remove stains, leaving your dishwasher squeaky clean & smelling fresh.
5: Address any Rust or Stains (every 3 months)
If you notice any rust spots or stubborn stains on the interior of your dishwasher, it’s essential to tackle them promptly. For rust, use a commercial dishwasher rust remover or create a paste with equal parts baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the affected areas, let it sit for a few minutes, and then gently scrub away the rust with a soft brush.
For tough stains, you can use a mixture of lemon juice and salt. Apply the mixture to the stains, let it sit for a few minutes, and then scrub away with a sponge or brush.
6: Top Up Salt & Rinse Aid
Adding salt & rinse aid will not only make your glasses sparkle, but the salt will also help keep your dishwasher limescale free, working at its absolute best and lasting longer – much longer.
To maintain a clean dishwasher, establish a routine of regularly cleaning the filter and drain and running a vinegar and baking soda cycle every 3 months. This will prevent the build-up of grime and ensure your dishwasher remains in excellent condition for years to come.
The Verdict
Cleaning your dishwasher is a simple yet essential task to maintain its optimal performance and hygiene. By following this step-by-step guide, you can easily remove debris, limescale, and odours, leaving your dishwasher looking and smelling fresh.
Regular maintenance and cleaning will not only extend the life of your appliance but also ensure that your dishes continue to come out sparkling clean with every wash.
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